The body’s requirement for iron doubles during pregnancy. I’m talking about going from 15 to 30 milligrams daily. It might seem like an easy task, but considering that iron is the most common nutrient deficiency, this might be harder than we think. So why is iron so important?
It’s responsible for making the hemoglobin protein. This protein has the task of bringing oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body, and for us pregnant women, to the placenta. Iron also enables the mother and the fetus to both form new red blood cells. It’s no wonder why we need it. Do you need more iron in your diet? Well, I do! And let me assure you that there are plenty of sources out there besides red meat, pork, poultry, seafood, beans, and iron-fortified cereals, breads, and pastas.
There are also foods that can be juiced and are a great complement to the on-the-go lifestyle. One such food is the beet. This superfood offers so much more than just iron. It cleanses the body, it helps with mental health, and it increases energy—all of these are important while being pregnant. And in some cultures, beets might be the reason why women get pregnant in the first place because it’s also considered an aphrodisiac!
So, what are you waiting for? Add beets to your juicing routine today.
- 4 beets—the ultimate source for potassium, magnesium, fiber, phosphorus, iron, vitamins A, B, and C, beta-carotene, beta-cyanine, and folic acid
- 3 mini seedless watermelons—great tasting, low-glycemic-load fruit that’s packed full of vitamins
- 1 honeydew—has high water content and potassium levels, great for blood pressure and tissue repair
- Wash beets, watermelon, and honeydew.
- Peel beets.
- Take the skin off watermelon and honeydew.
- Toss the ingredients into the juicer and activate.
- Stir and serve.
Enjoy!